Puerto Rico Silver Palm
Coccothrinax barbadensis
- Native to:
- Leeward Is., Puerto Rico, Trinidad-Tobago, United States, Venezuelan Antilles, Virgin Islands, Windward Is.
iNaturalist: © vjethro (iNaturalist #185598351)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Arecaceae
- Genus:
- Coccothrinax
- Species:
- Coccothrinax barbadensis
- USDA Symbol:
- COBA3
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Shrub , Tree
- Height:
- 600 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- apr,may,jun,jul
- Bloom Colors:
- white, cream
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, small mammals
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
- Salt Tolerant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- native to coastal areas with saline influence
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- None required
- Germination Time:
- 30–180 days
- Notes:
- Seeds germinate erratically over several months; fresh seed germinates best. Warm temperatures required.
The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI
Pre-treatment: Seeds (with fruit) were soaked in water for up to a week
Establishment: Tyre Palm is found in the west-end hills, Analy Bay and estate St. John on St. Croix. In St Thomas, it is found in northern coastal forests up nearly 1500 ft. It is also found on southern facing slopes at higher altitudes.
Source: npn.rngr.net